County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT) has begun a full review of its breast services as part of its ongoing commitment to safe, high-quality patient care.
Following feedback from national clinical audit programmes and external reviewers, the Trust has recognised that some aspects of its breast service require investigation. In response, CDDFT is undertaking a thorough and detailed review of patient care to ensure services meet the highest standards and to identify where any improvements may be needed.
Kathryn Burn, Executive Director of Nursing, CDDFT said: "We are committed to openness and transparency with our patients and local communities. This review is an important step in making sure we continually learn and improve, especially when care may not have met the standards we aim to deliver. Our priority is to ensure that our patients feel safe, supported and heard."
As part of the review, the team will begin carefully working through past cases to understand how care was delivered and where there may be opportunities to improve. If concerns are identified about individual care, patients will be contacted directly and supported through further discussion.
The Trust recognises this may be a worrying time for some patients and families, and a dedicated information line has been set up for anyone who has questions or would like to share their experience of care.
Kathryn added: “We know that hearing about a service review can feel worrying - especially if you or someone you know has received care through our breast service.
“Patient safety is always our top priority. That’s why we’re taking a closer look at some areas of care, to make sure we’re consistently delivering the best for our patients. The review is being done carefully, in stages, and is led by clinical experts. If we do find anything concerning about someone’s care, we’ll contact them directly and offer full support. If you haven’t heard from us, it means there are no concerns about your care at this time.
“If you would like to share any concerns or feedback on your experience then you can do this through the dedicated email and information and support telephone line we have in place. Details are available on the Trust’s website.
“We’re committed to being open, sensitive, and compassionate as we carry out this important work and we’ll keep sharing updates as the work continues.”
The Trust is working closely with system partners including the NHS England, the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) and the Northern Cancer Alliance to ensure the review is thorough and patient-centred.
Any patient with concerns is encouraged to contact our information and support line: 0191 3332126, or to email the team on: cddft.
